Jones is expected to consult on operations at every level of the team, both virtually and for limited time periods on the ground in San Diego.

The Australian has served as England head coach since 2015 and will contribute to San Diego Legion around his existing coaching responsibilities.

"My primary commitment remains to my England duties and other international commitments, but I have a passion for growing the game of rugby," Jones said.

"I was very impressed by the vision and ambition shown by San Diego and its ownership in delivering a professional rugby outfit with the clear aim of winning trophies.

"I am excited to support them in that endeavour."

Jones led England to the final of the Rugby World Cup last year in Japan, where they were beaten by South Africa.

He reached the Rugby World Cup as head coach of Australia in 2003, with the match ending in defeat to England.

Jones was an advisor to the South African team when they triumphed at the 2007 tournament, while he coached Japan to a shock victory over South Africa in the group stage at the 2015 World Cup.

"We want San Diego Legion to continue to build a world class rugby organisation and need to have everyone performing at their best," said Darren Gardner, San Diego Legion chairman.

"Eddie Jones is the benchmark for professionalism and global achievement in rugby, and we are confident he is the best person to help us do that.

"We are also very committed to winning a championship for San Diego, and we believe Eddie can play a key role in helping us to achieve that goal."

San Diego Legion hope Jones' experience will deliver an immediate benefit to the overall play of Major League Rugby and rugby throughout the United States.

Major League Rugby is the highest level of rugby competition in North America and is entering its fourth season.

The league began with seven teams in 2018, with the most recent season featuring 12.

The 2021 season is set to feature 13 teams, with 12 coming from the US and one from Canada.

The US has been mooted as a potential future host of the Rugby World Cup.